Southwest Middle School

09/09/2026

Tennis Update From Coach Woodall Routledge

Due to rain overnight, the courts will be unsafe with puddles and it could still be raining due to forecast.

We will try to have practice after school tomorrow (Thursday) in preparation for Friday's match.

It's only supposed to be 81, but drink lots of water and bring lots of water/gatorade with you tomorrow. We will meet at our normal time 3;20-4:45 weather permitting. We plan to have our match at LHS Friday 3-4:30ish, but may start early due to bus constraints.

Thank you for your flexibility and understanding,

09/08/2026

Cross Country Meet Canceled 9/08

Given the excessive heat warning lasting until 7pm, the predicted temperature at 6pm, and the humidity level, we have decided to cancel the cross country invitational this evening. This is not what we wanted; however, student safety is the utmost importance. We cannot guarantee it will be safe for participation today, so we will be canceling.

Thank you all for your understanding and patience. Hopefully there is a break in the weather soon!

Send a message to learn more

09/07/2026

Reminder, there is no school Monday, September 7th. We hope our students, staff, and families enjoy the long weekend!

Also, be sure to cheer on our Bulldogs this week!

08/31/2026

Southwest Middle School cheer tryouts are next week!
September 8 - September 10 from 3:15pm - 4:15pm
Meet in the Aux gym after school

08/29/2026

We are proud to give a huge shoutout to one of our very own Bulldogs, Riley Alva!

Riley was recently crowned (earlier this month) Jr. Miss Oglala Lakota Nation 2026–2027. In this role, she will represent her tribe as a young ambassador and serve as a positive role model and leader through her role as a powwow princess.

Our school and her family are incredibly proud of Riley and her dedication to her culture, community, and youth. 🐾❤️

Congratulations, Riley!

08/25/2026

SWMS Theater Kickoff is this Thursday 3:15 - 5:00pm
Learn how to audition for the Fall production, learn the different elements of technical theater, and tour the auditorium!

08/20/2026

Join us for our first Dine and Donate of the year, next Wednesday, August 26th. 20% of proceeds will be donated back to our school.

08/19/2026

07/22/2026

Lawrence Public Schools is hosting a Paraprofessional Hiring Fair on Thursday, July 23 from 9 AM–Noon at 110 McDonald Dr, Lawrence, KS.

- All positions available
- Starting wage: $20.00/hour
- Same-day interviews
- Benefits packages available
- Have the same schedule as your child!

Whether you're looking for a rewarding way to support students or a schedule that matches your family's calendar, we'd love to meet you!

07/21/2026

Getting ready for the new school year? We’ve got you covered!

Before the first bell rings, make sure two things are checked off your list:

✅ Returning families, complete Annual Student Enrollment at www.usd497.org/enroll.

✅ Visit our Back-to-School page for everything you need to start the 2026–27 school year off right: important dates, school hours, the district calendar, and more, all in one place.

📍www.usd497.org/back-to-school